University of Lincoln RIF Studentships 2014
PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title
Epidemiology, welfare and biomechanics of canine hip dysplasia
Project Reference
RIF2014S-54
Project Summary
Hip dysplasia is a developmental, irreversible orthopaedic disorder characterized by
the formation of loose hip joints, which over time may lead to degenerative joint
disease and osteoarthritis (Brass 1989).
It is one of the most serious canine hereditary diseases (Leighton 1997), with
exceptionally high prevalence. Some of the most popular breeds of dog, such as
Labrador and Golden retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Bull mastiffs,
English Springer Spaniels amongst many other breeds, are particularly susceptible
(Asher et al 2009).
National estimates of absolute numbers of dogs affected are lacking, but based on
available prevalence data, and estimated breed population sizes (UK Kennel Club
registration statistics 2013), a highly conservative estimate would be tens of
thousands of dogs at any point in time in the UK alone. This is in spite of the
existence of multiple evaluation schemes around the world aiming to help to breed
the condition out (Lewis et al 2013).
The extent of clinical signs does not always reflect the severity of the hip dysplasia
(Barr et al 1987). It is possible that some dogs do not experience pain, but
alternatively it may be that pain and / or gait abnormalities are present but not
manifest in a manner discernable by veterinarians.
This interdisciplinary project will investigate the epidemiology, biomechanics and
welfare implications of canine hip dysplasia.
Candidates for this PhD studentship within the School of Life Sciences at the
University of Lincoln should have a good Bachelors (2.1 or above) or Masters degree
in a relevant subject area (veterinary, bioveterinary, animal behaviour, animal
science, biological sciences). Experience using biomechanics software (eg. Quintic,
Simi Motion), R software for statistical analysis and/or dog handling experience is
desirable but not essential.
Supervisory Team
1. Dr Lisa M. Collins, Senior Lecturer, Lincoln School of Life Sciences.
http://staff.lincoln.ac.uk/lcollins
2. Dr Helen Zulch, Senior Lecturer, Lincoln School of Life Sciences.
http://staff.lincoln.ac.uk/hzulch
3. Dr Sandy Willmott, Senior Lecturer, Lincoln School of Sport and Exercise
Science. http://staff.lincoln.ac.uk/swillmott
Informal Enquiries
Informal enquiries or questions about this study can be directed to Dr Lisa Collins by
email: lcollins@lincoln.ac.uk
Eligibility
All Candidates must satisfy the University’s minimum doctoral entry criteria for
studentships of an honours degree at Upper Second Class (2:1) or an appropriate
Masters degree or equivalent. A minimum IELTS (Academic) score of 7 (or
equivalent) is essential for candidates for whom English is not their first language.
Funded Studentships are open to both UK/EU students unless otherwise specified.
How to Apply
Please send a covering letter outlining your interest and proposed approach (up to 1
page A4) with an accompanying CV to lcollins@lincoln.ac.uk by close of day on 18th
April 2014.
Candidates will be notified w/c 5th May of the outcome of the process and if invited to
interview, these are anticipated to take place w/c 26h May.